Here’s the skinny on tonight’s Town Council Meeting:
This was the first Town Council meeting attended by South Berwick’s new Town Manager, John Schempf. Mr. Schempf said that he intends to spend his first month on the job listening and learning about the town and the concerns of citizens. He described his initial impressions of South Berwick, saying how impressed he is that departments can do so much with so little, praising the level of community involvement and volunteerism, and appreciating the level of experience of the Town staff. He also said that he has his own ideas and is beginning to form some opinions based on what he is learning about the town. He stated that the budget is a major concern, but said that a positive is that every town and level of government is in the same boat, and that comparatively, South Berwick is in a sound position. Although there will be plenty of issues in trying to bring in a level budget, none are huge.
Mr. Schempf stated that he will be participating in many training opportunities so he can learn about being a Town Manager in Maine. He wants to know how things are done and wants to be able to have answers for the Council and for citizens. He also wants to network and develop statewide connections. He says he is a proponent of regionalization since it can mean lower costs, although it can also mean “one size fits all” solutions. He says the challenge for South Berwick will be deciding what services we want, at what price. He closed by saying he wil be doing some listening and by encouraging citizens to call him or email him to let him know their concerns.
Mr. Schempf also announced that Roberta Orsini has been made Assistant Town Manager and recommended that all email and correspondence be sent to both he and Ms. Orsini.
Unfinished Business
1. Discuss/take action on amendments to the Traffic Ordinance-The Council discussed further amendments to the Traffic Ordinance, including adding additional streets with no through trucking restrictions to protect roads, residents, and pedestrians in the event the 236 bridge is closed by MDOT for repair, causing truckers to seek alternative routes. Wording was also added to give the Town Manager discretion to issue parking permits for ADA parking. The Council voted unanimously to table the motion to accept the Ordinance. The amendments adding additional roads to the no through trucking restricition will require a public hearing.
2. Discuss/take action on Permitted Parking Policy-During discussion the Council clarified wording to require those seeking permits to show proof of residency and Maine automobile regisitration. Wording was also added to give the Town Manager discretion to issue permits for non standard situations (e.g. a citizen with an employee owned automobile from another state) The Council voted unanimously to accept the policy.
New Business
1. Planning Items:
A. Zoning Map- Change from current map to proposed map (pg. 3)
B. Height Change-Change exempts steeples and houses of worship sanctuaries from height requirements.
The Council voted unanimously to hold a public hearing on March 23 on the proposed changes.
